Oral Surgery and Common Surgical Procedures

May 21, 2023

At Stephens Dentistry we take pride in offering a wide range of treatment options, including a number of oral surgery procedures to help you achieve your oral health goals and your overall well-being.


Oral Surgery Briefly Explained

The term “oral surgery” refers to any procedure on your teeth, gums, jaw, or any of the surrounding oral and facial structures. It also includes a wide range of procedures, including, among others, the extraction of teeth, periodontal (gum) grafts, bone grafting, and corrective jaw surgery.


You may be a candidate for oral surgery if you have any of the following:

  • Widespread tooth decay
  • Gum disease
  • Broken teeth
  • Bone loss in the jaw
  • Missing teeth
  • Impacted teeth
  • Non-cancerous lumps or bumps
  • Oral cancer


Common Oral Surgery Procedures

Some of the more common oral surgery procedures include the following:


Tooth Extraction

Almost all dentists prefer to save your natural teeth when possible. There are times, however, when an extraction is necessary and this is, in fact, the most common form of oral surgery. Extraction may be necessary if you have severe tooth decay, gum disease, or some form of dental trauma. Additionally, extraction is sometimes necessary to prepare patients for dentures.


Bone Grafting

A dental bone graft becomes necessary when you have lost a significant amount of bone in your jaw. If one or more of your teeth have been missing for some time, bone loss can occur in the adjacent area. That’s because there are no roots present to stimulate the nerves to send messages to the brain to provide nutrients to that area.


In this situation, a bone graft restores volume and density to the afflicted area of the jaw bone so that dental implants can eventually be placed there.


In other cases, gum disease has caused a significant amount of bone loss around the affected teeth. In this situation, a bone graft can be used to provide stability and keep the teeth strong and healthy.


Dental Implants

Dental implants are considered the longest-lasting and most reliable option for the replacement of missing teeth. During this procedure, small, threaded posts – made of medical-grade titanium or zirconia – are embedded in your jaw. Once the affected area has healed, a dental crown, a dental bridge, or dentures can be attached to the implant.


Periodontal Surgery

In cases of moderate to severe periodontitis, this form of oral surgery may be needed to allow the dentist to thoroughly clean tooth roots of the plaque and bacteria that have accumulated under the gums. In cases of severe gum loss, a gum graft may be needed, using tissue taken from the roof of your mouth or acquired from a certified gum tissue bank.


Following Your Procedure – Things to Do and Things Not to Do!

Following your procedure, there will be some discomfort that can usually be controlled with OTC medication. As with any surgery, there is also the risk of infection, though very slight. Still another complication is a dry socket that occurs when a blood clot does not form, leaving your bone and nerves exposed and leading to dry-socket pain.


These risks can be minimized if you do the following after your surgery.


  • Rest – Your body needs time to recover. If you lie down, keep your head elevated to promote blood flow to your head and minimize swelling.
  • Ice – Use ice on your face to reduce swelling, usually 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off.
  • Eat soft foods – For a couple of days after surgery it’s advisable to consume only liquids and soft foods, like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soups.
  • Keep a clean mouth – For a couple of days after surgery, it’s advisable to rinse your mouth out with warm salt water several times a day, especially after eating to remove any lingering food debris.


On the other hand, following oral surgery things not to do include”

  • Do not brush or floss around the surgical area for the period of time recommended by your dentist.
  • Do not consume hot foods and drinks.
  • Don’t eat hard, crunchy foods.
  • Don’t consume alcohol for at least 24 hours after surgery.
  • If you’re a smoker, don’t smoke for at least 48 hours.


Oral Surgery at Stephens Dentistry

If you’re suffering from any of the dental issues we’ve discussed and think you may be a candidate for oral surgery, your search for an Evanston dentist to perform oral surgery can end with a simple phone call.


We offer a full range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental procedures, along with oral surgery, and we urge you not to delay. Call us today at (847) 864-8151, or if you prefer, contact us online to schedule a consultation with our dentists at Stephens Dentistry.

June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
April 29, 2025
Discover the lifelong benefits of restorative dentistry at Stephens Dentistry. Protect your oral health and enhance your smile. Schedule an appointment today.
a man holding his jaw in pain
April 1, 2025
Identify common dental emergencies with Stephens Dentistry. Get essential first aid tips to manage urgent situations effectively. Contact us today for expert advice.
a man sitting in a dentist's chair smiling
March 4, 2025
Explore the latest cosmetic dentistry trends at Stephens Dentistry in Evanston to enhance your smile. Schedule a consultation today for a radiant transformation.
More Posts